Hungary's Orbán accused of disloyalty and blackmail over Ukraine loan veto
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán vetoed the release of EU funds to Ukraine, citing a damaged Russian oil pipeline (Druzhba) that transports oil through Ukraine to Hungary, which he claims Ukraine has failed to repair.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned Orbán's veto as a "gross act of disloyalty," while European Council President António Costa described it as "blackmail," reflecting widespread frustration among EU leaders.
- Orbán, who maintains close ties with Russia and has made hostility towards Ukraine a campaign issue ahead of April elections, blocked the funds despite previously approving them, demanding Ukraine lift the oil blockade first.
- Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico also opposed the release of funds, complicating the unanimity needed for
